Dawn Til Dusk

14 December 2012

Wunan’s Indigenous Employment Program, Dawn Til Dusk, delivered by Bina-waji Aboriginal Corporation in Halls Creek, achieved an outstanding completion rate of 91 per cent this year.

The residential pre-employment program was conducted at Burks Park under the supervision of Bina-waji directors, Roy and Helen Wilson, who supported 30 young men to successful completion of the course.

The program established effective work routines for the participants, with a range of activities focussed on pastoral and associated skills. As the name of the program suggests, participants were up and working and learning early each day, continuing the activities until late afternoon.

Roy and Helen provided support to the young men, making them aware of workplace expectations, providing practical skills and as importantly, building the confidence of the participants. The environment provided the opportunity for participants to develop work readiness skills free from distractions or barriers they might normally experience in other settings.

Each participant was expected to complete six weeks of activity, including work experience during the final two weeks where possible and appropriate. To date, eight of the participants have begun full-time employment and three part-time employment with more results expected.

The success of the program can in part be attributed to the residential nature of the program and the dedication of the program coordinator, Lucy Rea, but much credit goes to Roy and Helen Wilson, for their genuine care for and ability to engage the participants, managing to build skills and confidence with each of the individuals.

An abbreviated version of the program is continuing to be delivered by Bina-waji Aboriginal Corporation for Wunan Job Services.

Topic: Employment